October 21st Newsletter

Dear Parents and Guardians,

During our literacy block, one very important time of our day is called Community Writing.  During this time, we do some writing together as a whole group, that relates back to a book we read or an experience we had.  For example, after a big book we read called, "In a Dark, Dark Wood," we wrote our own version called "In a Dark, Dark School!"  It was so much fun to share ideas and write the story together.  We work on composing a message, listening for the sounds in the word, spelling word wall words (sight words) correctly, and letter formation.  One goal is to keep the purpose of the writing very authentic, so we also wrote a letter to Mrs. Staffaroni's class (by vote) and asked them if they'd like to read our book.  It was very exciting to have a real audience for our writing!

We are really growing as writers, this week we'll focus on telling a story part by part, so that we understand how to include a beginning, a middle, and an end.  See what authentic ways you can get your child writing at home!  They could help with the grocery list, or write a letter to a family member, or keep a diary/journal.  Seeing parents write at home is also very supportive!

This week in Math, we will...

• Represent subtraction on a nu`mber line and by counting back. We will practice these skills by playing a game called Spin & Subtract.
• Determine how many more we need to make five and 6 (I have 3, how many more do I need to make 5/6).
• Explore multiples of 5 by making a class "Sea Star" quilt. We will observe patterns that involve 5s, as well as count by 5s and 10s.

Example of "Sea Star" quilt- We will notice patterns, count the stars "arms" by 5s, etc.

We will be starting our Land and Water unit in Science.  The students will learn about landforms, bodies of water, and using globes and maps.  We will also learn about bullying prevention with Mrs. Kikkert.

Special Points of Interest

• October 30- Picture Retakes
• October 31- Halloween Parade at 3:00 pm
• November 1- End of first quarter- No School
• November 11-15- Stuff the Bus Food Drive
• November 13- Dining for Dollars-Brandywine
• November 21- Parent-Teacher Conferences
• November 25- Parent-Teacher Conferences
• November 27-29- Thanksgiving Break-No School